Art time can look different from classroom to classroom. Some projects may be meticulously planned out to produce the “cookie-cutter”, all-too-cute, perfect craft, while other projects may be the result of letting children explore and create individualized masterpieces by providing interesting tools and materials for use at will. These two approaches are known as product art and process art.
Here at the Celebree School of Branchburg-Somerville, we understand the impact of process art in nurturing creativity, confidence, and growth.
What is the Difference between Product and Process Art?
- Product Art focuses on the result. A finished piece that looks a specific way, where step-by-step instructions are given, and the objective is for all projects to look similar.
- Process Art focuses on the creative journey of making an individualized piece. It emphasizes exploration, choice, and self-expression, where the result may look “messy” or abstract, and that’s ok!
Process Art Builds Bigger Skills
- Creativity: Process art encourages children to make their own choices and think outside the box.
- Problem Solving: Process art allows children to make their own decisions and determinations which fosters an ability to adapt and innovate.
- Resilience: Process art allows for the acceptance that mistakes are ok and are part of the process.
By providing a variety of exploratory materials, asking open-ended questions, and focusing solely on an experience rather than a final product, our Celebree teachers are able to encourage Process Art in our little learners through messy hands and growing minds.
Our job here at Celebree isn’t to make sure all our friends stay inside the lines, but to strive to make sure they have the confidence not to!
